Ice and Water Shield
A self-adhesive waterproof membrane applied to the roof deck in vulnerable areas like valleys, eaves, and around penetrations. Required by code in cold climates.
A self-adhesive waterproof membrane applied to the roof deck in vulnerable areas like valleys, eaves, and around penetrations. Required by code in cold climates.
Why Ice and Water Shield Matters for Insurance Claims
Ice and water shield is a critical waterproofing layer that protects against leaks in the areas most vulnerable to water intrusion. Unlike standard underlayment, it self-seals around nail penetrations, creating a watertight barrier even when shingles are missing or damaged. For insurance claims, ice and water shield is a required code-compliant component in many jurisdictions, and omitting it from an estimate leaves the roof unprotected and out of code compliance.
Ice and Water Shield in Xactimate Estimates
In Xactimate, ice and water shield is a separate line item from standard underlayment, with a higher unit price reflecting the premium material cost. It is measured in squares or square feet and should be applied to valleys, eaves, around skylights, pipe boots, chimneys, and any wall-to-roof intersections. When writing the estimate, calculate the square footage for each application area and list ice and water shield as a distinct line item rather than substituting standard underlayment.
Code Requirements and Coverage
The International Building Code requires ice and water shield at eaves in areas where the average January temperature is 25 degrees Fahrenheit or below. Many local codes extend this requirement to valleys and around penetrations regardless of climate zone. If the home being repaired did not previously have ice and water shield but current code requires it, the cost can be included under ordinance or law coverage as a code upgrade line item.
Frequently asked questions
Building codes typically require ice and water shield at eaves (from the edge to 24 inches past the interior wall line), in valleys, around roof penetrations, and at other vulnerable intersections. Requirements vary by climate zone and local code.
Yes. Ice and water shield has its own selector code and is measured in squares or square feet. It is priced separately from standard underlayment and should not be bundled with felt paper or synthetic underlayment in the estimate.
While it can be, full-roof application is not standard practice or code requirement in most areas. It is significantly more expensive than standard underlayment and is typically applied only in high-risk areas. Full-roof application may not be covered by insurance unless required by code.
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